Thrissur explosion: Death toll fears rise as secondary blasts hamper rescue efforts

THRISSUR: At least five people have been confirmed dead and over forty others injured following a series of violent explosions at a fireworks manufacturing and storage facility in Mundathikode. The warehouse was housing pyrotechnic materials for the Thiruvambady division in preparation for the upcoming Thrissur Pooram.

The disaster began when a massive blast ripped through the facility, which is situated on the edge of a large paddy field. According to initial reports, the explosion may have been triggered by extreme heat. The force of the initial blast sent debris and unexploded pyrotechnics flying into the surrounding fields, where they continued to detonate, creating a "terrifying" scene that has prevented locals and emergency services from immediately securing the perimeter.

Rescue operations have been hampered by the location’s geography. The primary access road to the site is narrow, forcing fire crews to break down nearby walls to reach the burning facility.

Eyewitnesses described a scene of total devastation. "It is impossible to approach the area," one local youth told media through tears. "Some people were rescued, but they were burned so badly they couldn't be identified. There were about 40 people working there."

Among those critically injured or missing is Mundathikode Satheesan, the license holder for the Thiruvambady fireworks display.

"My friend Satheesan is among them," the witness added. "He had actually mentioned that this might be the year he stops working with fireworks. I don’t know what happened... I am very sad."

Authorities have cordoned off the area as secondary explosions continue to pose a threat. While five deaths are confirmed, officials fear the toll may rise as rescue teams sift through the debris. Medical facilities in the region are currently on high alert, treating dozens of workers who sustained severe burns and impact injuries.